There are a number of different treatments for depression, which can be broadly divided into two categories: psychological therapies and medication.
Psychological therapies aim to help the person understand and manage their condition, while medication aims to alleviate the symptoms of depression by altering brain chemistry.
The most common psychological therapy for depression is cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), which teaches people to recognise and change negative thinking patterns.
Other types of psychological therapies include interpersonal therapy, which focuses on relationships; problem-solving therapy, which helps people to find practical solutions to problems; and psychodynamic therapy, which explores the role of past experiences in present difficulties.
Medication for depression is typically antidepressants, which work by increasing levels of certain chemicals in the brain known as neurotransmitters.
There are a variety of different antidepressants available, and the type that is prescribed will depend on the individual’s specific situation.
Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) is another treatment option for depression, particularly when other treatments have been unsuccessful. ECT involves passing electrical currents through the brain to induce a seizure, which is thought to have a beneficial effect on mood.